The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has referred the film Satluj, featuring actor and singer Diljit Dosanjh, to the Interdepartmental Committee for examination following its removal from an OTT platform shortly after its release. The move marks the beginning of an official review process under the framework governing digital media content in India.
According to reports, the film became unavailable on the streaming platform only a few hours after its release. Following the development, the Ministry initiated the process of referring the matter to the Interdepartmental Committee, commonly known as the IDC, which examines complaints and issues relating to online curated content under the Information Technology Rules.
The Interdepartmental Committee functions as a statutory review body constituted by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. It examines complaints related to digital news publishers and online curated content after they have passed through the grievance redressal mechanisms prescribed under the Information Technology Rules, 2021. The committee evaluates whether the content complies with the applicable legal and regulatory framework before making recommendations to the Ministry.
As of now, the Ministry has not issued any public statement regarding the specific reasons for the referral or the issues that will be examined during the review. Likewise, no final decision has been announced regarding whether the film will return to the streaming platform after the committee completes its assessment.
The makers of Satluj and the OTT platform have also not released detailed statements explaining the circumstances surrounding the film's removal. In the absence of official clarification, the matter remains under review by the competent authorities.
Diljit Dosanjh is one of the leading actors and musicians in the Indian entertainment industry, known for his work in Punjabi and Hindi cinema. His films often attract significant audience interest both in India and internationally. Consequently, developments relating to the release and availability of his projects receive considerable public attention.
The review of Satluj highlights the regulatory process applicable to digital streaming platforms operating in India. Under the Information Technology Rules, online streaming services are required to establish grievance redressal systems and comply with content regulation norms. In cases where issues remain unresolved or require further examination, they may be referred to the Interdepartmental Committee for review.
Legal experts note that the IDC does not automatically prohibit or approve content. Instead, it examines the material, considers relevant legal provisions, and makes recommendations to the Ministry based on its findings. Any further action is taken in accordance with applicable laws and established procedures.
Until the committee completes its examination, there is no official confirmation regarding the future availability of Satluj on digital platforms. Audiences and stakeholders are expected to await the Ministry's decision following the completion of the review process.
Further updates are likely to be issued by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting or the concerned stakeholders once the committee concludes its examination and appropriate decisions are taken.